What Is an Installment Loan? Your Complete 2025 Guide to Payday Loan Alternatives from Zurich Funding

Whether you're trying to catch up on bills, manage an unexpected expense, or just need extra breathing room between paychecks, installment loans are quickly becoming the top choice for working Americans. At Zurich Funding, we offer a smarter way to borrow — fast, flexible installment loans as a payday loan alternative, with no hidden fees, no gimmicks, and no credit score required to apply.

If you’ve been burned by payday apps or one-size-fits-all lenders in the past, this blog is for you. Let’s break down the most frequently asked questions about how our loan process works, who qualifies, and why thousands are switching to direct lenders like Zurich Funding in 2025.

What Is an Installment Loan?

An installment loan is a type of personal loan that gives you a fixed amount of money upfront and lets you repay it over time with a set payment schedule. These loans are designed for flexibility, not stress.

Unlike payday loans, which require full repayment within two weeks (plus rollover fees), Zurich Funding’s installment loans give you up to 10 months to pay off your loan, with a predictable structure and no surprises.

At Zurich Funding, you can borrow between $250 and $3,000 with no subscription fees, no prepayment penalties, and no minimum credit score required to apply.

How Is an Installment Loan Different From a Payday Loan?

While payday loans are due in full within just two weeks and often come with high APRs and rollover fees, installment loans from Zurich Funding offer a more realistic and manageable solution. Instead of being forced to repay everything at once, you can spread your payments over 3 to 10 months, giving you room to breathe. Payday loans usually don’t help build your credit and rarely offer any personal support — you’re just another number. In contrast, Zurich Funding provides fixed monthly payments, no hidden fees or early payoff penalties, and a dedicated portfolio manager who supports you throughout the life of your loan. You also get the chance to build a positive payment history with us. As a true payday loan alternative, our installment loans are flexible, transparent, and designed to actually help and not hurt your financial situation.

Payday loans often lead to rollover cycles, late fees, and financial stress. Zurich Funding offers a real solution — an installment loan with terms you can actually afford, backed by real support.

What Can I Use a Zurich Funding Installment Loan For?

Our clients use our loans for all kinds of real-life needs, including:

• Rent and housing costs
• Utility shutoff notices or past-due bills
• Auto repairs and maintenance
• Emergency dental or medical costs
• Childcare, school supplies, and groceries
• Paying off existing payday loans
• Covering a short paycheck or lost hours

There are no restrictions on how you spend your funds — you’re in control. This is your loan, your money, your call

What Are the Requirements to Apply for a Zurich Funding Installment Loan?

We make the process simple and fast. Here’s what you’ll need to apply:

• Valid Government ID 
• 3 recent bank statements (PDF format only)
• 3 recent pay stubs or award letter from Social Security/Veterans 
• An active checking account 
• Must be 18+ years old
• No collections or charge-offs accounts

Can I Get an Installment Loan with Bad Credit?

Yes. Zurich Funding is a direct lender that works with clients who have fair or poor credit. We run a basic credit check to verify your account history, but we do not require a minimum credit score to apply.

As long as you meet our income and banking requirements and don’t have open collections or charge-offs, you’re eligible.

How Long Does It Take to Apply and Get Approved?

Most Zurich Funding clients complete the online application in under 5 minutes.

Once approved, you’ll receive your funds as soon as the same day, or by the next business day, depending on when you apply. Your dedicated portfolio manager will guide you every step of the way.

How Much Can I Borrow from Zurich Funding?

We offer loans from $250 to $3,000. Your approved amount is based on:

Clients who repay responsibly often qualify for loan increases, and refinancing options over time.

Why Choose Zurich Funding as Your Payday Loan Alternative?

Here’s why more borrowers are switching to Zurich Funding in 2025:

• We’re a direct lender, not a payday loan, not a faceless app
• You get a dedicated portfolio manager, not a call center
• Same-day or next-day funding for approved applicants
• No hidden fees, no subscriptions, no bait-and-switch
• We reward good payment history with better loan terms
  
  We’re here to help you build financial stability, not break it.
  

  Apply Today — A Better Payday Loan Alternative Awaits

  If you're looking for a flexible, fast, and fair alternative to payday loans, Zurich Funding has your back. With simple requirements, fast funding, and personal support, we make it easy to borrow with confidence.

  Apply online now
  Or call 888-398-7424 to speak with a dedicated portfolio manager
  
  

  More Resources:

  Top 5 Reasons People Are Choosing Installment Loans Over Payday Loans in 2025